• Number of children showing symptoms of trauma has increased dramatically
• World Vision concerned about lasting impact violence is having on children
• Child-friendly programs created to help 2,200 children in Gaza

MISSISSAUGA, Ont. (Feb. 5, 2009) — World Vision started programs to help children in Gaza cope with the emotional trauma that escalated from their exposure to violence, death and loss during the recent Israeli incursion. These emergency psychosocial interventions will reach 2,200 children in Gaza

“As a child-focused agency, we are deeply concerned about the lasting impact this violence is having on children, who make up half of Gaza’s population and who have just endured highly traumatic events,” said Charles Clayton, National Director of World Vision Jerusalem-West Bank-Gaza. “Both Palestinian and Israeli children suffer from the conflict and addressing their needs requires psychosocial support.”

Local World Vision staff reported that the number of children showing symptoms of trauma has increased dramatically since the latest fighting.

Even before the latest conflict, children in Gaza faced high levels of recurrent nightmares and anxiety-induced bedwetting linked to prolonged exposure to violence and fear. A June 2008 study by World Vision revealed alarming rates of trauma symptoms among children aged five to 15 in North Gaza, with more than 16 per cent of those surveyed suffering from nightmares.

World Vision’s programs will reach 1,200 children in the north and 1,000 in the south of Gaza by providing a space that will allow them to break away from the painful reality of war that has affected their lives and allow them to be children again.

The programs provide a secure environment with counsellors trained to help children handle psychological and emotional problems. Recreational activities such as puppet shows and games help children feel a sense of security and normalcy. Their mothers participate in workshops on how to best protect and reassure them.

World Vision donors support more than 23,000 children in the West Bank and Gaza, including 6,000 children sponsored by Canadians in the West Bank. World Vision began working in Israel and the Palestinian territories in 1975.

World Vision is accepting donations to assist those affected by the Gaza conflict. Those wishing to help can visit WorldVision.ca or call 1-800-268-5528.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

- 30 -

To interview World Vision staff, please contact:

Yoko Kobayashi
905-565-6200 ext. 2151
416-671-0086 (cell)
yoko_kobayashi@worldvision.ca

Alex Sancton
905-565-6200 ext.3949
416-419-1321 (cell)
alex_sancton@worldvision.ca